(Image from Flickr, by Paul Keleher)
They lurk in malls, selling soap, oversized stuffed animals and mobile phone accessories. As you pass, they ask, “Can I ask you a question?” Those unlucky few who respond, “Yes,” seem as naïve as New York tourists staring up at skyscraper.
I’m sure “Can I ask you a question?” was a great sales technique at some point. But it becomes less useful with each additional vendor that adopts it.
Consider a new approach: Instead of, “Can I ask you a question?” ask, “May I tell you something useful?” “May I tell you something funny?” “Can I help you find a store?”
If each of these vendors were armed with helpful resources that would benefit the average mall-walker, I think it might boost their sales.
What do you think?
